Site Technician

Mechanical Technician - R&D Technician

About Us

We help customers navigate the complex transition to a decarbonised and more sustainable energy future. Our work supports industries, infrastructure operators and governments in addressing technical challenges, improving safety and making informed decisions in an increasingly complex world.

Join One of the World's Leading Major Hazards Research Facilities

What if your next role involved working on projects that have never been done before?

At Spadeadam Research and Development Centre, you'll be part of a team tackling some of the most significant safety and resilience challenges facing the energy, industrial and infrastructure sectors. For more than 50 years, organisations from around the world have come to Spadeadam to answer critical engineering and safety questions through large-scale testing and research.

Spadeadam is recognised as one of the world's leading major hazards research facilities. Engineers, scientists and technical specialists design, build and operate unique experimental systems that help industry understand and manage risks associated with emerging technologies and complex engineering environments. Research programmes cover hydrogen and alternative fuels, fire and explosion hazards, high-pressure gas releases, pipeline integrity, critical infrastructure resilience, industrial process safety and emerging energy technologies.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Mechanical Technician to join our Major Hazards Research and Development team.

This is far from a conventional technician role. Rather than simply maintaining existing equipment, you will help design, build and operate one-of-a-kind experimental facilities that generate the evidence needed to solve complex engineering challenges.

Working alongside experienced engineers, scientists and technical specialists, you will contribute throughout the project lifecycle, from concept development and design through to construction, commissioning, testing and operation. One week you could be helping to develop a new hydrogen research facility; the next, you may be constructing a large-scale test rig, modifying a high-pressure gas system or supporting a full-scale explosion experiment.

No two projects are the same. This role offers the opportunity to develop a broad range of practical and technical skills while working on research that directly influences industry standards, engineering practice and safety worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Design, build and maintain large-scale experimental test rigs and mechanical systems.

Support the construction, modification and commissioning of research facilities and infrastructure.

Carry out routine maintenance, inspections and fault-finding activities.

Assist in the design and implementation of mechanical, piping and process systems.

Ensure all work is carried out in accordance with site safety standards and procedures.

Participate in safety reviews, HAZIDs and risk assessment activities.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a practical, proactive technician who enjoys solving problems, working with complex mechanical systems and contributing to innovative projects.

You will be comfortable working as part of a multidisciplinary team and motivated by the opportunity to take on new technical challenges.

Experience in mechanical engineering, industrial plant, pressure systems, piping systems, maintenance or construction environments would be advantageous.

What You'll Gain

Hands-on experience with unique large-scale experimental facilities.

Exposure to cutting-edge research in hydrogen, alternative fuels, industrial safety and infrastructure resilience.

Opportunities to work on pioneering projects that influence industry practice across the globe.

Ongoing technical and professional development.

Collaboration with highly experienced engineers, scientists and technical specialists.

A varied and challenging role where no two days are the same.

This is a rare opportunity to apply your technical skills in an environment focused on innovation, research and real-world impact, helping to solve some of the most important safety and energy challenges of today and tomorrow